Ronaldinho Backs Brazil Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026 Knockout Match Against Norway

Ronaldinho Shows Support for Brazil

On July 6, in New York, legendary Brazilian footballer Ronaldinho expressed his encouragement for the national team as they prepared for their Round of 16 match against Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Head coach Carlo Ancelotti announced the starting lineup, featuring Gabriel Martinelli and young forward Rayan for the crucial match at MetLife Stadium.

Before the match commenced, Ronaldinho shared a message on X, stating, "Another decisive match! Good luck and let’s go for it, Brazil!"

Ancelotti decided to keep faith in Martinelli, who had scored a last-minute goal against Japan to secure Brazil's advancement to this stage. The 19-year-old Rayan joined Vinicius Jr and Matheus Cunha in the attacking trio, while Raphinha and Neymar, both returning from injuries, were placed on the bench.

The Brazilian lineup included Alisson as the goalkeeper, with Danilo, Gabriel Magalhaes, Marquinhos, and Douglas Santos forming the defensive line. Casemiro and Bruno Guimaraes were tasked with controlling the midfield, while Martinelli played on the left side of Ancelotti's diamond formation behind the front three.

On the other hand, Norway made a notable change by bringing back Julian Ryerson, who had missed the previous match against Ivory Coast, replacing Marcus Holmgren Pedersen. Captain Martin Odegaard led the midfield, with Erling Haaland at the forefront of the attack, supported by Alexander Sorloth and Antonio Nusa.

Brazil advanced to the Round of 16 after finishing at the top of Group C with seven points, overcoming a significant challenge against Japan in the last round. They managed a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory, marking their first knockout win in the World Cup after trailing since their quarter-final win over England in 2002.

Despite their strong history, Brazil approached this match with caution, having lost their last six knockout stage encounters against European teams.

Norway entered the match with high spirits, having achieved their first-ever World Cup knockout victory by defeating Ivory Coast 2-1 in the Round of 32. Coach Stale Solbakken's team had already secured their place from Group I and had won 15 of their last 20 international matches.

Historically, Norway had the upper hand against Brazil, remaining unbeaten in their four previous encounters, with two wins and two draws, including a notable 2-1 victory during the 1998 FIFA World Cup.